Analysis on the Shape and Pattern Art of the Baby Bibs in the Republic of China Period (1912–1949)

Baby bib is a popular clothing accessory during the Republic of China period. This article takes baby bibs in this period as a case to analyze their style and pattern characteristics. Results showed that the baby bib shapes can be classified into three types, including geometric shape, plant shape and animal or children shape. Geometric shaped bibs account for the largest proportion due to their relatively simple craftsmanship. The embroidery patterns of the bibs include plants, animals and human related items, with peony and butterfly being the mostly used patterns. Among the bibs, 48% bibs have peony embroidery and 30% bibs have butterfly embroidery. Tiger patterns are also greatly used because of the implied meaning of tiger being able to drive away evils and protect the children. The study provides a reference for elucidating the artistic and cultural connotations of this folk clothing during the Republic of China.